I always love a good pair of compression pants or socks, but I’ve never had a pair of shorts. On tough workouts (hill repeats, or as of late, prowler thrusters) my quads and hamstrings are always on fire and sore for 1-2 days post workout, so I was excited to try out these shorts. The SKINS A400 compression technology is “…Developed for women on the move, and using dynamic gradient compression, this range is SKINS’ most technologically advanced yet. A400s boost your natural performance by delivering more oxygen and reducing lactic acid in your muscles, so you can up your own intensity without worrying too much about the next-day muscle strain.”

Upon putting on the SKINS A400 Compression Shorts I noticed that they fit well (I have a size medium), were breathable, and pretty comfy overall – I really like the wide waist band. I had ZERO chafing during my runs (I may or may not have talked about this on my blog, but I’ve been chafing lately. Not cool). I wore these shorts for long & easy runs, hill repeats, speed work and while training at the gym (deadlifts & squats). While I can’t say that I noticed a difference between other compression pants I’ve worn vs these particular compression shorts, I can say I noticed a difference in recovery from when I would wear them during my runs/activity vs when I did not.

The ADAPTIVE Technology of SKINS helps to keep you feeling warm when it is cold and cool when it is hot, which I did notice. The weather here in Sacramento is changing, so I was able to see how these shorts perform in hot and cold weather. Thumbs up there!!

If you are not familiar with compression gear for runners, SKINS has much of the common features of compression gear, including gradient compression, moisture wicking, UV protection, and reflectiveness, just to name a few. Some features of SKINS that you won’t find in all compression products include:

Strategically placed Memory MX panels for biomechanical function

Focused muscle support and stability during activity

Seams positioned for ultimate comfort during recovery

Precision fit based on 3D body scan research data

GLIDER Technology to reduce friction and eliminate chafing

Proven 50+ UV protection in all non-mesh areas

Flat lock stitching for durability

Testing them out in my garage gym

PROS:

Comfortable

Stay in place while running

I like the ADAPTIVE Technology (keeps you cool when it is warm, warm when it is cool)

Reflective

Pocket for key, or something small

CONS:

Cost (I find it hard to pay $99.99 for a pair of shorts. Although right now they are on sale for $79.99)

Thinner than other compression gear I have. Which makes me feel like the quality isn’t as good – you know, the whole perceived value thing.

Even with the “cons” overall, I would recommend these shorts. They are super comfy, I love that they are reflective, and if you’re a runner, you can never have too much compression gear!! If you want to get a pair of SKINS for yourself, use code BIBRAVE20 for 20% off your order through the end of October (full price items only).